Cardiff & Welsh Heritage Discovery

Things are different in Cardiff, the Capital of Wales. Within the compact city center you'll find unique attractions, top class entertainment - and quality shopping with a difference. Innovative architecture sits alongside historic buildings, the bustle of the city center is only a few strides from acres of peaceful park-lands, and Cardiff Bay offers indoor and outdoor entertainment for everyone. On arrival, you will be met by your local guide and taken to you hotel by private vehicle. Experience the beauty of The Gower Peninsula on a private tour exploring its golden sandy beaches and limestone cliffs. The Gower Peninsula is the UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is 19 miles by 6 miles of award winning beaches, dramatic cliff-top walks, picturesque villages, rolling countryside, valleys, woodlands and breathtaking views. The area boasts many ancient sites including castles and a human burial chamber dating back to 3500 BC. You will also enjoy a day trip out into West Wales along the South Pembrokeshire Coast. We will happily arrange any transfer needs you may have if you plan on combining time in Wales with some of the rest of the UK or further afield - just ask!

Itinerary

Cardiff

Radisson Blu

Day 1: Cardiff

Meet your driver for a private train station transfer.

Consider taking a private tour to discover the Georgian town of Bath, the Roman town of Wells and the world heritage site of Stonehenge. Alternatively, you could take a trip to the Brecon Beacons National Park which contains some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in Europe. Another option today would be to take a trip out along the Heritage Coast - with beautiful low cliffs and dramatic coastal scenery. Walk along the beautiful Dunraven Bay at Southerndown - a large expanse of golden sand when the tide is out.Pass by ancient ruins such as Ogmore Castle and the picturesque village of Merthyr Mawr with its thatched cottages and its great dune desert, Britain’s largest dune system. There are also plenty of great golf courses in the vicinity if this is of interest. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you would like anything organised for you today.

A welcome package with a city map, train tickets (if relevant), and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be waiting for you upon your arrival at your first hotel on your trip.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu (4*)

Tasty fare at Giovanni's Restaurant

Raglan Castle

Day 2: Cardiff

Spend the day on a privately guided day tour in the company of a knowledgeable driver-guide and private vehicle. After being picked up from your accommodation, the first visit is to Chepstow Castle, which is perched above the swirling waters of the River Wye. Standing guard over a strategic crossing point into Wales, this well-preserved landmark castle was probably the first stone castle to be built in Britain and one of the few to trace the evolution of medieval military architecture from start to finish.

North of Chepstow is the Wooded Wye Valley, an 'Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty' which winds its way through Tintern to Monmouth. Tintern, dominated by the soaring ruins of its medieval abbey, has attracted poets and artists for centuries. The abbey is an outstanding example of Gothic architecture and provides a fascinating insight into monastic life in medieval times.

From here, you'll travel north through the Wye Valley to the historic Welsh border market town of Monmouth, situated at the confluence of the Rivers Wye, Monnow and Trothy. Perhaps best known as the birthplace of Henry V, Monmouth boasts a whole host of historical sites, people and buildings from the Nelson Garden to The Town Hall. It has a medieval 13th-century bridge over the River Monnow, unique in Britain as it is the only preserved bridge of its design remaining.

Raglan was the last medieval fortification built in Britain. Raglan was built on the site of a former Norman motte in 1435. The design combines practical strength with ostentatious style. Raglan Castle is set amongst rolling border country. Once a sumptuous palace, with formal state apartments and a Great Tower, it was more a state of wealth and social aspiration than an intimidating military presence. It acquitted itself well however, when forced into active service, enduring in 1646 one of the longest sieges in the English Civil War, before falling to Cromwell's forces and suffering at the hands of his demolition team. Even in ruin however, noble Raglan remains the finest late-medieval fortress palace in the British Isles.

The landscape of The Marches - the Welsh border, is dominated by two rivers, the Wye and the Usk. They meander through green vales set in rolling countryside. The entire area is idyllic touring country. Scenic roads weave across hill and vale dotted with pretty little towns and villages. Discover the historic floral town of Usk which stands in the valley of the same name.

The final stop of the day is Caerleon, one of Europe's most fascinating and revealing Roman sites. To the Romans Caerleon was known as Isca or often referred to as 'City of the Legions'. Here they created not just a military camp but also an entire township, complete with amphitheatre which, in its heyday, would have seated in the region of 6,000 people and would have been the scene of many gladiatorial games against men and beasts. Dr Mortimer Wheeler extensively excavated the remains of the Amphitheatre in 1926 and they remain some of the best preserved in Britain. The variety of remains on view in Caerleon (from its amphitheatre to the excavated bathhouse complex, barracks and museum) is unparalleled within the British Isles, providing a vivid picture of life in Roman Britain almost 2,000 years ago. At days end you will be returned to your accommodation in Cardiff. (includes all entrances).

There are lots of restaurant options to choose from both in Cardiff city centre as well as Cardiff bay. If you like Italian cuisine, you may like to try Positano's (9-10 Church Street tel: 029 2023 5810) or Giovanni's (38 The Hayes, tel: 029 2022 0077) which has a great family atmosphere and an impressive array of Barolo’s and Chianti's. Alternatively, consider Bullys - (5 Romilly Crescent, tel: 029 2022 1905). Bully’s uses seasonal produce from Welsh providers, complemented by a unique French wine list sourced from small, passionate growers. If you feel like venturing outside of the city and to Cardiff Bay, consider Woods Brasserie - a contemporary restaurant situated within the iconic pilotage building of Cardiff Bay. The restaurant has a modern conservatory style dining room, a comfortable bar area and a balcony offering views of Cardiff Bay. (Pilotage Building, Stuart Street tel: 02920 492 400). Another option in Cardigan Bay is the Pearl of the Orient, situated in the opulent surroundings of Cardiff Bay's mermaid quay development. The restaurant offers the first Cantonese, Peking, Malaysian and Szechwan cuisine in Cardiff in a contemporary, relaxed surrounding. (Mermaid Quay, tel: 029 2049 8080). Of course, you may simply like to take a stroll through the city centre and decide what catches your fancy this evening.

Accommodation: Radisson Blu (4*)

Brecon Beacons landscape

Day 3: Cardiff

Spend the day exploring the Brecon Beacons, Books and Black Mountains on a privately guided day tour in the company of a knowledgeable driver-guide and private vehicle. After being picked up from your accommodation, start the day with a short walk with your guide and enjoy the fantastic views overlooking the whole of Cardiff, a panoramic view of the South Wales coast, combined with stunning views of The Valleys and The Brecon Beacon National Park (weather dependent).

Enjoy the drive to Caerphilly Castle, the second largest castle in Britain. Built in the late 13th century, the fortress is a supreme example of the concentric 'walls within walls' system of defence, and the castle's outstanding water defences made it almost impregnable to siege warfare. Particularly noteworthy features include the gatehouse, banqueting hall and full-size working replicas of medieval siege-engines. Often threatened but, unsurprisingly, never taken, the castle's only sign of weakness is its famous leaning tower (which out-leans the tower at Pisa!)

The Brecon Beacons National Park spans 519 square miles of beautiful mid-Wales countryside and contains some of the most spectacular and diverse landscapes in Europe. The landscape is scattered with prehistoric monuments, Roman remains and medieval castles, spectacular waterfalls, caves and wooded gorges, along with distinctive upland formations. Take in the scenery as you are driven to the southern edge of the National Park, taking a scenic route towards the attractive village of Talybont-on-Usk, in the Usk Valley. Absorb the superb views including forests, reservoirs, waterfalls and wildlife.

Then stretch your legs on a 40 minute walk along part of the multi-purpose Taff Trail. This off road walking and cycling track, runs from the Cardiff Bay Waterfront to the Market Town of Brecon, a distance of 55 miles. Continue to Hay-on-Wye, the 'Town Of Books’, with its maze of narrow ancient streets, housing over 35 bookshops with over a million books for sale - a mecca for second-hand book and antiquarian book lovers!

The northeastern most section of the Brecon Beacons National Park is known as the Black Mountains. The Black Mountains displays awesome remoteness, only partly tamed by human habitation. Tiny villages, isolated churches and delightful lanes are folded into the undulating green landscape. Before leaving the Brecon Beacon National Park, enjoy a 30 minute walk, which offers stunning 360 degree views of the National Park, including the Beacons, Corn Ddu and Pen-y-Fan, the highest mountain in South Wales, with its distinctive red table top summit standing at 886 metres. At days end you will be returned to your accommodation in Cardiff. (Includes all entrances to places mentioned)

Accommodation: Radisson Blu (4*)

Oxwich Bay Gower Peninsula

Day 4: Cardiff

Experience the beauty of The Gower Peninsula, with its golden sandy beaches and limestone cliffs as you enjoy a privately guided day tour in the company of a knowledgeable driver-guide and private vehicle. The Gower Peninsula is the UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is 19 miles by 6 miles of award winning beaches, dramatic cliff-top walks, picturesque villages, rolling countryside, valleys, woodlands and breathtaking views. The area boasts many ancient sites including castles and a human burial chamber dating back to 3500 BC.

After being picked up at your accommodation in Cardiff, you'll get to explore this beautiful coast line on a small group (max. 7 people) guided tour. Take in stunning views over Oystermouth Bay in Mumbles, the gateway to the Gower. Stretch your legs on a half hour walk into Langland Bay from Bracelet Bay and Limeslade Bay. The walk takes you along a steep cliff top with breathtaking views of the coast.

Positioned between Three Cliffs Bay and Oxwich Bay, Penmaen Burrows has a number of archaeological remains and is both interesting and scenic. You may like to take a leisurely 40 minute walk offering spectacular cliff top views of Three Cliffs Bay's semi-secluded pristine beaches and cliff top views over the outstanding six mile stretch of sand which is Oxwich Bay.

More amazing coastal views are to be had at Rhossili Bay, where you can take a walk along the body of the sleeping dragon, towards Worms Head. The last stop of the day is Cefn Bryn, Gower's sturdy spine, which commands views of the North Gower coast, Carmarthen Bay and a distant glimpse of Pembrokeshire and the rugged interior landscape of the Gower Peninsula. Here, wild ponies, cattle and sheep graze freely on common ground. The legend of King Arthur which permeates across this ancient and historical landscape is never far away. There is another opportunity to take a short walk, take in the amazing views and visit one of the Seven Wonders of Britain, Arthur's Stone before being returned to your accommodation in Cardiff at days end. (Includes entrances)

Accommodation: Radisson Blu (4*)

Day 5: Cardiff

What's Included:

Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

What's not Included:

Trip Terms & Conditions

Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.

Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.

Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary

Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.

Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.

Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

Hotels

Radisson Blu

Radisson Blu (4*) - Cardiff

The Radisson Blu Hotel (4*) is located in the city center of Cardiff and affords guests access to exciting attractions, thriving commercial districts and lively nightlife. A 21-story structure sporting a stunning glass and metal exterior and streamlined décor, this premier accommodation boasts modern design inside and out. Choose one of 215 cozy rooms and suites, each with free WiFi and coffee and tea provisions. Savor flavorful Italian and local cuisine at the on-site Filini Restaurant & Bar.

Map

Reviews

Europe
Vanessa Oquendo ,
April 21, 2014"Melissa Field was extremely helpful! She was courteous, professional, knowledgeable, and friendly! She kept me updated on the status of everything and provided timely correspondence. She took ownership for any problems I had and remedied them. I had the most amazing time of my life in Iceland and Paris! I would not have experienced everything without the help of Kensington Tours."

Europe
Marilynn Weaver ,
April 21, 2014"All of our guides were beyond fabulous! Our time in Dublin was much too short, would have loved to stay there at least one more full day. Would recommend extending this package to 15 days for any future visits. The train to Edinburgh was super! Beautiful scenery and great steak pies!"

Europe
Ann Saxon ,
November 06, 2013"Our trip was fantastic!!! I cannot say enough good things. Lianne worked with our exact dates and time frame beautifully.Our drivers were prompt and friendly. The private guides were so knowledgeable. We left with an appreciation of the history, the culture, and the beauty of Andulasia. We were very pleased and will certainly recommend your company to friends and family."

Europe
Coby Scherr ,
November 05, 2013"Everyone involved in our Portugal trip made it terrific. Exactly as advertised. Every event on time and most pleasant. Guides were well-informed, courteous and friendly. Really made for a great journey every time. Each hotel was clean, upgraded and staffed with knowledgeable and friendly folks. Breakfasts were complete -- almost too much to eat. It will always be a wonderful memory thanks to Kensington Tours."

Europe
Couples Dellinger & Hubbell ,
November 06, 2013"We've been raving to everyone about the food, the friendliness of the people and the amazing history and sites in Turkey. Yes, we want to go back."

Europe
John Edstrom ,
October 22, 2013"Overall, our tour in Spain was very enjoyable, and well planned and executed. Our private tour of the Alhambra was excellent. Virginia, tour guide for royal palace ruins outside of Cordoba, was also excellent. In Seville, we went to the Flamenco Show/dinner, and the Flamenco was outstanding!"

Europe
Kevin Wilshere ,
October 19, 2013"Great trip to Spain! Thanks again for all your help, Lianne. The destinations, hotels, guides and everything were all top notch."

Europe
Chery Westlund ,
November 07, 2013"My husband and I took a 3 week vacation to southern Europe and North Africa and had a great time. All the guides were very knowledgeable and bent over backwards to accommodate us. The arrangements made by Kensington went off without a hitch. This is our second trip with Kensington (we went to Peru in 2009) and we will certainly book with them again."

Europe
Randy Gramlich ,
October 07, 2013"Thank you for your follow up, we both loved our time in Croatia. It’s really a beautiful place, especially the coast. Your choice of hotels was great. It was an incredible view from the Bellevue hotel in Dubrovnik and the Vestibule in Split was in the best possible location. We were able to relax in our room listening to the wonderful singers in the courtyard and its central location made it so easy to walk anywhere we wanted to see with ease. "

Europe
Jay Steffan ,
September 24, 2013"We just returned from a 10 day trip to Paris and Normandy. We spent three nights in Paris and then enjoyed a seven night cruise on the Seine to Normandy with AMA Waterways. The time in Paris was well spent and has piqued our interest to return for a more thorough visit. Guide Wafaa Lankey was superb in our visit to Versailles. The Seine cruise was relaxing and beautiful. So many wonderful little towns and we wished we had more time in each one to explore and enjoy.
We traveled to Croatia and Slovenia using Kensington earlier this year which was a fantastic trip."